By vaccinating your dog, you prevent unnecessary illnesses and limit their spread. A puppy is usually vaccinated just before it is collected from the breeder, but after that, it’s the new owner’s responsibility to vaccinate his or her dog. For show and competition dogs, there are special rules that must be followed for the dog to participate, and if you want to travel abroad with your dog, you must find out what rules apply when entering and leaving.
Your dog’s first vaccination is already given when it is a puppy. Dogs should receive the first dose of vaccine against parvovirus, canine distemper, and hepatitis when they are around seven to eight weeks old. Since puppies should not leave their mother before they are eight weeks old, the breeder normally takes care of vaccinating the puppy. It must be stated in the purchase agreement that the puppy is vaccinated. In addition, a vaccination certificate from the veterinarian must be provided at the time of purchase. If for some reason the breeder has not vaccinated the puppy at eight weeks of age, it is the new owner’s responsibility to ensure that it is done as soon as possible. The vaccine should then be renewed when your dog is 12 weeks and one year old. In order to have adequate protection, your dog has to be vaccinated at regular intervals. The recommended interval for vaccinating your dog is every three years. Vaccinating against parvovirus, canine distemper, and hepatitis is particularly important if your dog spends time in places and environments where there are many other dogs, for example in dog parks or at shows and competitions.